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Hey everyone! I'm so thrilled to share the story behind my latest self-portraits. You might have seen the #2024 and #2020vs2024 challenge floating around, and I just had to jump in! It’s such a cool way to see how much we’ve grown and how our personal style evolves over time. Looking back at my 2020 self-portraits compared to now, it’s amazing to spot the subtle (and not-so-subtle!) changes in my makeup and overall vibe. It's truly a journey of self-discovery through art and expression. For these recent shots, I really wanted to lean into my #indigenous and #nativeamerican heritage, blending traditional inspirations with a modern twist. The main focus was definitely on the eyes and lips, which I feel are the most expressive features. You can see one of my favorite looks features that really bold red eye makeup – it’s such a statement! I achieved this by layering a highly pigmented cream shadow with a matching powder, ensuring it stayed vibrant. I experimented with adding those delicate white heart shapes on the cheeks to bring a touch of playfulness and contrast against the darker, more intense elements. It’s all about expressing my identity and feeling powerful in my own skin. Another look I absolutely adore from this series showcases a sharp winged eyeliner paired with my go-to dark lipstick. For the liner, I swear by a liquid pen for precision, building up the wing slowly until it’s perfectly symmetrical (or as close as I can get!). And a deep, rich lip color just adds that extra layer of drama and confidence, especially when paired with a strong eye. I often find myself reaching for deep berry or plum tones. When I'm taking these #selfportrait shots, I often use a handheld oval mirror to get those unique angles and reflections, which adds another dimension to the photos. It’s not just about the makeup; it’s about the whole artistic process of capturing a moment and conveying emotion. If you're thinking about creating your own 2020 vs 2024 challenge post or just want to up your self-portrait game, here are a few tips I've learned along the way: Find Your Light: Natural light is always best! Position yourself near a window for soft, even illumination. Avoid harsh overhead lights. Experiment with Angles: Don't be afraid to try different poses and camera angles. Sometimes the most unexpected one turns out to be your favorite, especially when trying to capture a mood. Makeup Matters: Think about what you want to highlight. For these looks, I concentrated on dramatic eyes and lips to make a strong visual impact. Don't be shy with color or texture if that's your personal style! Reflect and Refine: Use props like a mirror to add interest or to help you see yourself from a different perspective as you shoot. It can create cool effects and depth. Tell Your Story: Your self-portrait isn't just a picture; it's a reflection of who you are and where you're at in your journey. Let your personality shine through every brushstroke and expression! Embrace Imperfection: Not every shot will be perfect, and that's okay! The beauty is in the process and the authenticity. I hope this gives you a little more insight into my creative process and maybe inspires you to try some new looks or join a challenge yourself. What are your favorite self-portrait tips or makeup styles? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!